The Trump administration is struggling to get in contact with recently fired National Nuclear Security Administration (NNSA) officials to inform them that they have been reinstated.
Around 300 staff members at the NNSA were told on Thursday that they were being fired as part Elon Musk’s DOGE ongoing plans to reduce federal spending.
NNSA staffers are responsible for designing, building and overseeing the U.S. nuclear weapons stockpile. Among the employees fired were NNSA staff who oversee the contractors who build and inspect nuclear weapons and write requirements and guidelines for contractors who build nuclear weapons.
A source told CNN they believe these individuals were fired because “no one has taken any time to understand what we do and the importance of our work to the nation’s national security.”
The Trump administration reversed their decision after learning the workers’ responsibilities but have been struggling to find these fired staffers because they do not have their new contact information.
“The termination letters for some NNSA probationary employees are being rescinded, but we do not have a good way to get in touch with those personnel,” an email sent to employees at NNSA and obtained by NBC News reads.
“Please work with your supervisors to send this information (once you get it) to people’s personal contact emails,” the letter adds.
A NNSA nuclear safety specialist told NBC News that she plans to go back but will continue to look for other employment opportunities and will leave as soon as she finds another job.
“I intend to keep looking for work. I will go back, but as soon as I find another role, I’ll be leaving,” she said. “I have no faith I will keep my job.”
